EU allocates 2 bln euros for Middle Corridor, Freedom Holding expands logistics
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
The European Union has allocated 2 billion euros to develop the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (Middle Corridor), with Kazakhstan as a key transit hub. Freedom Holding Corp. announced plans to expand its logistics operations in the region, including new warehousing and freight services. The investments aim to boost trade between Europe and Asia amid shifting supply chains.
EU Funding Details
The European Commission announced the 2-billion-euro package on July 13, 2026, as part of its Global Gateway initiative. The funds will support infrastructure upgrades along the Middle Corridor, including rail modernization and port development in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. The EU expects the corridor to triple cargo volumes by 2030, reducing transit time from 45 to 15 days.
Freedom Holding Expansion
Freedom Holding Corp., a US-based financial services firm with major operations in Kazakhstan, said it will invest $150 million in logistics infrastructure. The company plans to build a 50,000-square-meter warehouse complex near Almaty and launch a freight forwarding service connecting China to Europe via Kazakhstan. CEO Timur Turlov stated the move aligns with growing demand for alternative trade routes.
What's Next
The EU and Kazakh government are set to sign a memorandum of understanding in September 2026 to formalize the funding. It remains unclear how quickly private sector investments like Freedom Holding's will materialize and whether infrastructure bottlenecks can be resolved.
1 source
EU allocates 2 bln euros for Middle Corridor, Freedom Holding expands logistics
